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Grover Hot Springs
Overview
Grover Hot Springs State Park offers a unique blend of alpine scenery and geothermal relaxation in the heart of the Sierra Nevada. Located in a high-mountain meadow surrounded by towering granite peaks, it serves as a tranquil escape for those looking to disconnect from the modern world. The park is renowned for its natural mineral hot springs, which are channeled into soaking pools for public use. It provides a classic California State Park experience where the focus remains on the raw, unadulterated beauty of the mountain landscape and the healing properties of the water.
Location & Surroundings
Situated just a few miles outside the historic town of Markleeville, CA, the park sits at an elevation of nearly 6,000 feet. The surrounding landscape is defined by the winding Hot Springs Creek and expansive meadows that contrast beautifully with the rugged, pine-forested slopes. Visitors are treated to crisp mountain air and dramatic views of the surrounding wilderness area. The environment is remarkably quiet, offering a peaceful atmosphere that feels significantly more secluded than the nearby tourist hubs of Lake Tahoe, making it a true hidden gem of the Sierras.
Amenities & Park Features
The campground is tailored for a traditional outdoor experience, featuring paved parking pads and individual fire rings at most sites. It is essential for RVers to know that this is a dry camping destination, meaning there are no hookups available on-site. However, the park provides essential facilities such as piped drinking water, restrooms, and seasonal showers. The main attraction is the mineral pool complex, featuring a hot soaking pool and a larger swimming pool. Additionally, the park boasts an extensive network of trails that are perfect for morning strolls through the meadow.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Beyond the soaking pools, the area is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The East Fork Carson River is located nearby and is widely considered a premier destination for fly fishing and trout seekers. For those who enjoy high-altitude sightseeing, the scenic drives over Monitor Pass or Ebbetts Pass offer some of the most spectacular vistas in California. Visitors can also explore the historic district of Markleeville for local dining and history. Hiking remains a top priority here, with trails leading to majestic waterfalls and secluded alpine lakes within the backcountry.
Who This Park Is Best For
This destination is ideal for travelers who prefer a rustic and authentic camping experience over a commercial resort setting. Because of the narrow roads and specific site lengths, the park is best suited for smaller travel trailers, camper vans, and modest-sized motorhomes. It is a fantastic choice for hikers and photography enthusiasts who want immediate access to the high backcountry. If your travel goal is to soak in warm mineral waters while surrounded by the silence of the forest, this park is a perfect fit for your itinerary.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Tammy Hoffman
Great hot springs! Staff is awesome, life guard so friendly! Very relaxing, felt great after hiking the afternoon.
Cyndi Huffman
Absolutely beautiful setting. Wish we could had stayed at the state park campground- but at 30ft we are too long. After driving around we understand why. The day use picnic area is really nice. Nice they allow dogs also (on leash). The park worker was super hopeful!
Chris Sonneborn
Nice hot pool and cold pool. Honestly, have been spoiled with other more luxury hot springs. The staff were very nice, and it would be terrific to hit at night and stargaze.
Don Bergan
They are amazing. Only 1.5 hours per session but that was enough for me. They are set deep in the mountains and even have a cool pool to dip in should you get too hot. The hot springs were about 104 degrees. Toasty!
Hutch Kwatowski
Awesome place and my first hot spring experience. Only snag was that the gate attendant said I wasn’t on the register at first, and then said the “credit card machine” was down so bring cash for the day use parking as a backup. Water was warm and you can definitely feel the sediment. I was a bit apprehensive they allowed children in the hot pool but they weren’t a problem and were quiet. Cold pool was nice to stretch out as the hot pool got cramped. Hiked to the waterfall beforehand and everything was well marked great meadow hike and interpretive signs. Will be back again sometime! The older gentleman at the pool explained a few of the features and about the sediment which I was shocked! See the picture attached. It didn’t phase me but it’s definitely not crystal clear water lol.